48 Hours in Perth

Framed by endless blue skies and the sparkling Indian Ocean, Perth is one photogenic city. Beyond hitting the beach, we’ve put together our dream itinerary showcasing the very best experiences this West Coast gem has to offer.

Day 1

• Touch down

Perth doesn’t have the best public transport connections to and from the airport, but it makes up for it with a fantastic line-up of Uber drivers. Download the app, and get to the CBD for as little as $25.

• Settle in

Perth offers a wide range of accommodation to suit all tastes and budgets. Whether you prefer the comfort of a hotel in the city centre or the charm of a stay in a local neighbourhood, there’s something for everyone. Areas like Mount Lawley, Cottesloe, Fremantle and Subiaco provide a great base for exploring, with plenty of cafes, shops and parks nearby. For a more home-like feel, short-term rentals (such as Airbnb) can offer a relaxed and convenient option.

• Brunch in the burbs

Perth is known for its scrumptious brunch scene, pioneered by some of Australia’s most creative chefs. There are some amazing places to eat, so why not check out the offerings? Check out Mary Street Bakery in Highgate, Petition Kitchen in the CBD, Sayers Sister in Northbridge and Palette in Fremantle.

• A stroll around Elizabeth Quay

Fondly nicknamed Betty’s Jetty by locals, Elizabeth Quay is Perth’s latest waterfront development. Stroll around the quay, then catch a Transperth ferry to East Perth. It’s a picturesque place for a coffee, and home to Perth Zoo.

• Urban heart

Bohemian at heart, Northbridge boasts some of Perth’s best shopping. Check out William Street for quirky boutiques, or head to the city centre for malls, arcades and high street staples. Discover WA’s diverse natural history at the Western Australian Museum, go highbrow at the Cultural Centre and admire Indigenous work at the Art Gallery of Western Australia. Top things off with a glass of Swan Valley wine in Lot Twenty’s trendy brick-clad courtyard.

• Sunsets in Cottesloe

Head to the beach at around 4pm for a taste of Perth’s laidback lifestyle. It might not be warm enough to swim, but Cott is a gorgeous place for a beach walk. Order fish and chips from local favourite Amberjacks, and settle down on the grass for one spectacular sunset. Or, catch an Uber up the coast to City Beach and splurge on dinner with a view at Odyssea Beach Café.

• Urban cocktails

If you’re still wanting more to see and do, head back to the city and check out Perth’s up and coming bar scene. Lafayette serves up mouth-watering cocktails, as does the Print Hall. Alternatively, work your way through the impressive wine and beer list at Lalla Rookh.

Day 2

• Soak up the views from King’s Park

Rise and shine for an early morning coffee at King’s Park. As one of the largest inner city parks on the planet, it’s home to a kaleidoscopic palette of wildflowers, as well as bushwalking tracks, lakes, towering eucalyptus trees and of course, stunning views over the silvery Swan River. For an enriching experience, we’d recommend the 90-minute guided Indigenous Heritage Tour.

• Explore Fremantle

After you’ve ticked Kings Park off your list, catch the train to Fremantle for brunch, take two. Enjoy seasonal menus, artisanal sourdough and a lofty warehouse setting at Bread in Common, or get distracted with sparkling sea views at Bib & Tucker.

• Shop the strip

After you’ve had your fill, spend an hour or so exploring the quirky shops, and getting lost in the sprawling Fremantle Markets. Hiring a bike is a great way to explore Freo’s beautifully preserved Victorian townscape.

• Discover culture and history

Fremantle is home to some of Perth’s best cultural attractions, and it’s definitely worth dedicating a few hours to exploring what’s on offer. Tour Fremantle Prison, and sign up for a night time torchlight tour or tunnels experience if you’re feeling adventurous. Check out the Fremantle Maritime Museum for world class displays, and behind the scenes access to a genuine submarine. Other great picks include the Freo Arts Centre, Round House and War Memorial.

• Wine and dine by the waterfront

Wind things up by heading down to the Esplanade for a taste of Perth’s flourishing craft beer scene. Soak up waterfront views and a hip atmosphere at Little Creatures, Fremantle’s iconic brewery. Sample local vino at the elegant Whisper wine bar, then enjoy a boozy dinner somewhere like Nieuw Ruin (with a choice of over 250 wines, and a sustainable menu with local produce, fresh seafood and uncommon cuts), The La Lune (a Parissiene-inspired food and beverage menu), Jetty Bar And Eats (stunning views and Mediterranean-inspired tapas),or La Sosta (authentic Italian).

Did we miss your favourite way to soak up the Perth sunshine? Give us a shout, we’d love to hear your suggestions on how to spend 48 hours in the West Australian capital!

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